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Port Dover Family Dentistry
Night Guards for Teeth Grinding in La Salette
Waking with sore jaws or worn teeth? La Salette patients can learn how a night guard limits grinding damage and how the team checks its fit and wear.
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Caring for La Salette patients at our Port Dover office
See every dental service for La SaletteProtect teeth while you sleep
Grinding at night can quietly wear teeth down over years.
Teeth grinding during sleep can put far more force on teeth than normal chewing. Over time, this may flatten biting surfaces, chip edges, crack fillings and leave jaw muscles sore. Many people do not know they grind until a partner mentions it or a dentist notices wear at a checkup.
A night guard is one of the most common ways to reduce this damage. Patients in La Salette can be assessed at our Port Dover office, where the dentist can check for grinding signs and explain whether a guard is likely to help in your case.
Is grinding the issue
Confirm what is happening before choosing a solution.
Signs you may be grinding
Common signs include morning jaw stiffness, headaches near the temples, worn or chipped teeth, sensitivity and fillings that keep breaking. A partner may hear grinding noises at night. The dentist will look for wear patterns and ask about your symptoms during the examination.
Other possible explanations
Jaw pain and headaches can also come from joint problems, sinus issues or other causes. Grinding is sometimes linked to stress or sleep-related breathing problems. If symptoms such as heavy snoring or daytime fatigue are present, you may be advised to speak with your physician as well.
How guards help
A guard protects the teeth from grinding forces.
Cushioning and spreading force
A night guard covers the biting surfaces of upper or lower teeth, so grinding happens against the guard rather than enamel. This can reduce wear, protect dental work and sometimes ease muscle soreness. A custom guard is shaped to your teeth for a stable, comfortable fit.
What a guard does not do
A guard generally does not stop grinding altogether. It manages the effects rather than the cause. If stress, sleep problems or bite issues are contributing, these may need separate attention. The dentist will explain what to realistically expect from wearing a guard.
Getting fitted
A custom guard is made to fit your bite.
Impressions and design
The dentist takes impressions or a scan of your teeth and may record your bite. The guard is then made from a material suited to your grinding pattern. Hard, soft and layered options exist, and the dentist will recommend one based on your needs.
Try-in and adjustments
At the fitting appointment, the guard is checked for retention and comfort. The bite surface may be adjusted so your teeth meet evenly. Wear it for a few nights and report any tightness, sore teeth or jaw discomfort. Small adjustments can make a significant difference.
Daily use
Looking after the guard keeps it working well.
Cleaning and storing the guard
Rinse and gently brush the guard each morning with cool water. Avoid hot water and harsh cleaners that could warp or damage it. Let it dry and store it in a ventilated case, out of reach of pets. Brush your teeth before putting the guard in at night.
Monitoring wear and fit
Bring the guard to checkups so its fit and wear can be inspected. Replace it if it cracks, becomes loose or no longer fits after dental work. Significant wear on the guard shows it is absorbing forces that would otherwise affect your teeth.
Planning your appointment
Grinding assessments for people near La Salette.
Book an exam at our Port Dover office and mention grinding, jaw soreness or chipped teeth. Ask how many visits are typically needed to complete a custom guard.
If you have an old or store-bought guard, bring it so the dentist can see how you have been wearing it down.
Port Dover Family Dentistry
697 Norfolk County Hwy 6, Unit 2, Port Dover, ON N0A 1N2519-583-2929Directions to our office (opens in a new tab)Office hours & contact detailsBefore you book
Night guard questions
Have a question about your situation? Our team can help you plan a visit.
How do I know if I need a night guard?
Signs like worn teeth, jaw soreness, morning headaches or a partner hearing grinding suggest you may benefit. A dental exam can confirm whether grinding is causing damage.
Can I use a store-bought night guard?
Store-bought guards may help some people, but they often fit less securely. A custom guard is made from your teeth and adjusted to your bite. The dentist can help you weigh the options.
Will a night guard stop jaw pain?
It may ease muscle-related soreness from grinding, but jaw pain has many possible causes. The dentist will assess the joints and muscles to determine whether a guard is likely to help.
How long does a night guard last?
It depends on the material and how heavily you grind. Some last several years. Regular checks help identify when a guard is worn or no longer fits.
Is it normal for a new guard to feel tight?
Some snugness is normal at first. Persistent pressure, sore teeth or jaw discomfort should be reported so the dentist can adjust the guard.
More help for grinding
General Dentistry →Custom Night Guards →
A custom night guard can protect teeth from overnight clenching. La Salette patients can see how fit is checked in Port Dover and how to clean and store it.
Bruxism Treatment →
Clenching or grinding wears teeth and tires the jaw. La Salette patients can have signs of bruxism checked in Port Dover and discuss protection options.